Category: Philippines Daily Inquirer

Corruption allegations surrounding the government’s flood mitigation projects might have affected some of the programs of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA).

At a Senate hearing on Thursday, Sen. JV Ejercito noted the ‘unfunded items’ under the MMDA’s P5.8 billion budget proposal for 2026.

‘MMDA submitted a total proposal of P13.576 billion, but only P5.884 billion was recommended by the DBM (Department of Budget and Management) in the 2026 National Expenditure Program, representing a reduction of P7.692B or 56.66 percent,’ Ejercito, who was presiding over the meeting, said.

Some of these unfunded projects, according to Ejercito, include a P300 million rehabilitation improvement along Manggahan floodwater channel (Phase 2), and another P300 million for the rehabilitation improvement along the lower Marikina River (Phase 20).

Ejercito asked then why the DBM did not fund those projects.

‘Maybe because these are connected to flood control projects, your honor,’ MMDA Chairman Romando Artes answered.

‘As we all know, people are somewhat allergic to flood control projects – even the DBM and the national government. That’s why we did not pursue it,’ he added in Filipino.

The alleged collusion of some politicians, government officials and private contractors to defraud government of multi-billion pesos has prompted the scrapping of the P250 billion budget for flood control projects for 2026 under the Department of Public Works and Highways.

‘But again, projects like these have been a big help, especially here in Marikina, and in the faster drainage of floodwaters from our streets,’ Artes went on, still referring to the unfunded projects of his agency.

Still, MMDA retains at least P1 billion budget for flood control projects or P32 million per city, as noted by Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate committee on finance.

‘We have to remember that all of DPWH’s flood control projects were removed. Right now, the MMDA has over ?1 billion for flood control projects. Maybe it’s not as the same as DPWH but it’s the same philosophy,’ Gatchalian pointed out.

Artes assured the senator that the decision and determination of these projects lie ‘solely’ with the MMDA.

Baek Se-hee, the author of the bestselling memoir ‘I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki,’ has died at the age of 35.

According to the Korea Organ Donation Agency, Baek saved five lives through organ donation. The agency said on Thursday, Oct. 16, that she donated her heart, lungs, liver and kidneys.

Baek rose to prominence with her runaway bestselling essay collection ‘I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki,’ a candid reflection on her struggles with depression and her therapy sessions with her psychiatrist.

The book resonated widely for its plain-spoken honesty and its effort to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental illness in South Korea.

The book has been translated and published in more than 25 countries including the United Kingdom, Germany, Spain, Italy, Belgium and Poland.

Hisense, the number one brand in the ultra-large screen TV market globally, officially introduced the world’s largest commercially available TV in the Philippines: the Hisense 116-inch Class UX Series RGB-MiniLED. The brand held its official launch at the Ansons The Link Makati last October 7, wherein the ultimate view was revealed, showcasing Hisense’s latest innovation in transforming home entertainment into a true-to-life cinematic experience. As the star of the show, the Hisense 116′ Class UX Series RGB-MiniLED stands out not just for its gigantic size but also for its advanced display technology. This TV delivers an elevated home viewing experience that goes beyond what traditional OLED and QLED screens offer, thanks to its RGB-MiniLED technology. This paradigm shift uses Red, Green, and Blue LEDs directly at the backlight level to enable true 3D color control and independent local dimming across each channel. Hisense is also the brand that first defined the origin of this breakthrough technology.

The brand further highlighted the TV’s superior features during the launch, ranging from its visual brilliance to its intelligent adaptability that enhances the way people enjoy entertainment.

Hisense 116′ TV’s visual power is unmatched with up to 8,000 nits peak brightness and over 20,000 color control units with industry-first RGB Local Dimming for hyper-realistic clarity and color purity.

At its core is the Hi-View AI Engine X, a powerful processor that continuously analyzes and adapts content in real-time. This is where engineering excellence meets intelligent viewing, optimizing both visuals and audio for a stunningly realistic experience. For one, the TV operates with a CPU that is 1.4 times faster, a GPU that is 2.2 times faster, and an NPU that is 1.7 times faster than previous models.

The AI Picture feature brings vibrant colors and smooth motion, while the AI Sound ensures clear audio by detecting dialogue and optimizing sound based on both the on-screen action and the surrounding environment. Meanwhile, the AI Scenario adjusts picture settings to perfectly suit the specific type of content being watched, while AI Energy helps save on electricity through smart, pixel-level brightness control.

Apart from the product launch, Hisense also proudly announced its support for the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Solidifying its commitment to enriching the lives of its community, Hisense equipped the organization with new, high-quality television sets to aid in furthering its programs dedicated to promoting and preserving cultural heritage, such as in film, theater, and visual arts.

The new Hisense 116′ Class UX Series RGB-MiniLED is now available in Ansons The Link at a promo price of Php 1,249,999 for straight cash payments, with an SRP price of Php 1,999,999 SRP. This latest innovation from Hisense will also be and will be available soon in select participating stores nationwide. The first three buyers will also receive a limited-edition commemorative token for their purchase.

Magnolia made it two wins in two games under new coach LA Tenorio after defeating the Calvin Abueva-less Titan Ultra, 127-119, in the PBA Philippine Cup on Friday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Veterans Mark Barroca and Ian Sangalang backed up Zavier Lucero and Jerom Lastimosa as the Hotshots overcame the determined Giant Risers in a high-scoring battle that kept Tenorio unbeaten in his role on the sidelines.

Barroca finished with 16 points, four rebounds and seven assists while Sangalang scored 21 on top of five rebounds to show why the two remain key fixtures in Magnolia’s quest to end its long title drought.

Lucero had another big game for the Hotshots with 23 points and 17 rebounds, Lastimosa had 13 points, four rebounds and six assists while Russel Escoto pumped in 16 points off the bench.

The Hotshots won the first of their two games in three days, with the next being the Meralco Bolts on Sunday at Ynares Center in Rodriguez, Rizal.

Titan Ultra absorbed its second straight defeat and fell to 1-2 after missing Abueva, who is still nursing a hamstring injury sustained against Converge.

That denied the chance of Abueva facing his former team, which dealt him to the then-NorthPort franchise during the eliminations of last season’s Philippine Cup for William Navarro.

Abueva was even slapped with two technical fouls for improper bench decorum as he constantly argued his case against the officials.

Joshua Munzon scored 28 points plus six assists and three steals for the losing Giant Risers, whose next game is against the TNT Tropang 5G on Oct. 24 at the original Ynares Center in Antipolo.

Troy Montero delightedly shared with the public the progress of Rocket, his daughter with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), who – from being non-verbal – is now able to read at six years old.

The celebrity dad was visibly proud as he showed himself reading a story book with Rocket, through his Instagram page on Tuesday, Oct. 14.

‘From non-verbal at 3 to reading at a first-grade level at 6,’ Montero said in the caption. ‘Rocket, you’ve truly come a long way!’

‘Like any success story, it takes a team to get here,’ he continued.

The actor then credited Rocket’s teachers as well as the therapies and treatments she underwent. ‘We’re beyond grateful.’

‘And to our community here on Rocket’s ASD Awareness Page your encouragement, your stories, and your positive energy mean so much to us. Let’s keep pushing for more progress, more breakthroughs, and more hope,’ he added.

‘Onward and upward,’ he concluded. Rocket is the youngest child of Montero and his wife, actress Aubrey Miles. The couple first opened up about their daughter’s condition in April 2022, and has since been documenting their journey.

The Philippine Coast Guard Station in Northern Samar has temporarily suspended on Friday voyages for all types of vessels and watercraft plying routes within its area of responsibility following the hoisting of Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 due to Tropical Depression Ramil.

In an advisory issued, the Coast Guard stated the suspension covers the eastern portions of Northern Samar, including the towns of Laoang, Catubig, Palapag, Mapanas, Gamay, Lapinig, Pambujan, and San Roque.

The directive aims to ensure the safety of passengers and vessels in the face of possible inclement weather.

The Coast Guard reminded owners and operators of fishing boats, passenger motor bancas, and small watercraft with a gross tonnage of three or below to take extra precautionary measures and avoid unnecessary sea travel.

‘All vessels are reminded to take precautionary measures and be extra vigilant in monitoring the movement of Tropical Depression Ramil,’ said Lieutenant Junior Grade Joshua Gabon, station commander of PCG Northern Samar.

Voyages will remain suspended until further notice and will only resume once weather and sea conditions improve.

The Coast Guard added that vessels seeking to take shelter will be allowed to do so only upon a written request, provided no passengers or cargo are on board./coa/abc

PUMA is heading up north to open its first-ever La Union store on October 17. Situated on the Ground Floor of the new SM Mall of La Union, this store offers a new spot to explore PUMA’s iconic collection of performance gear, sleek lifestyle sneakers, and chic apparel, seamlessly blending sporty function with everyday style. ‘We’re excited to open our newest PUMA store here at SM City La Union, bringing our signature blend of sport and lifestyle to this vibrant community. This expansion reflects our commitment to reaching more Filipinos with world-class products. We look forward to becoming part of La Union’s growing energy and passion for active living,’ said Paolo Misa, Country Manager of PUMA Philippines, when asked about their latest venture up North.PUMA Icons Available at SM La Union

PUMA’s new store at SM La Union is bringing iconic footwear and fresh lifestyle silhouettes closer to the Northern community. Shoppers can expect exciting releases that mix the latest designs and everyday comfort.

Wear the iconic PUMA Speedcat OG

Speedcat OG in Metallic

First launched in the late ’90s, this low-profile sneaker was inspired by Formula 1 pit crews and designed for speed and precision. Choose between Black, Red, and Metallic colorways to bring motorsport heritage to your everyday look. With its sharp lines and sleek fit, the Speedcat OG gives you that perfect balance of athletic edge and street style flair. The Speedcat OG retails at PHP 7,100.

Try on the sleek Speedcat Ballet Café

Speedcat Ballet Cafe

The Speedcat Ballet Café embodies the elegance of ballet flats while staying casual and comfortable. Its warm, neutral, and earthy hues, combined with subtle textures and a soft design, make it perfect for everything from coffee runs to casual walks. Whether you’re embracing the balletcore trend or seeking a stylish, everyday shoe, this pair offers effortless charm with a modern twist. The PUMA Speedcat Ballet SD Café collection is available in two colorways Prairie Tan and Dark Chocolate for PHP 5,200.

Slip into the light PUMA Bella UT

Speedcat Bella UT

For those who want a sneaker that’s clean, comfortable, and easy to wear anywhere, the Bella UT delivers. Lightweight and breathable, it’s designed to keep up with your everyday rhythm-whether you’re running errands, traveling, or just keeping it casual. Its minimalist design allows you to pair it with nearly anything, while delivering the all-day comfort PUMA is renowned for. Get the Speedcat Bella UT for just PHP 5,200.Shop at the First PUMA Store at SM La UnionBe among the first to shop the Speedcat OG in Black, Red, and Metallic, the chic Ballet Café, and the versatile Bella UT when the store opens on October 17.

PUMA’s expansion into SM La Union brings its signature style closer to home, offering sneakers and gear tailored to your lifestyle-whether you prioritize performance, style, or both. From iconic classics to fresh redesigns, this new store has something for everyone.

Gear up for a weekend packed with action, style, and nonstop gaming as vivo brings the vivo V60 Lite Launch Event to the SM North EDSA Annex Atrium on Saturday, October 18, 2025.

With the theme ‘Game at Full Power. Style in Your Hand,’ the event will bring together top cosplayers, streamers, and gamers for an epic celebration of vivo’s newest smartphone, built for the new generation of trendsetters and digital warriors.

Here’s a sneak peek at what fans can look forward to:

A star-studded 5v5 Honor of Kings (HOK) battle

Prepare for an adrenaline-pumping HOK exhibition match as cosplayers Charess, Rain Ara Pega, and Nikkinikki, together with gamers Amara Ui and Kurimeow, join five pro players in an intense 5v5 showdown – all powered by the new vivo V60 Lite.

This best-of-three 5v5 battle promises high-energy gameplay, fierce competition, and stunning cosplay flair on stage.

Fun-filled activity zones you shouldn’t miss

The event area opens at 10:00 AM with three exciting activity zones where fans can play, snap photos, and experience vivo’s world of entertainment:

vivo x NBA Basketball Challenge – Show off your basketball skills and score at least three baskets to complete the challenge.

vivo Selfie Mirror Check – Snap your best selfie and post it on social media with the hashtags #vivoV60LiteNonstopFun and #vivoV60LitePopPinkPhone for a chance to be featured.

Super Battery Power Zone – See the 6500mAh BlueVolt battery in action and discover why the vivo V60 Lite keeps you powered all day long.

10th Year Birthday Photowall – Celebrate vivo’s 10th anniversary by striking a pose at the photowall – the perfect souvenir shot for every fan.

vivo Product Experience Area – Get hands-on with the vivo V60 Lite and explore its impressive performance and stylish design. Loved it? Pre-order your own unit right at the booth.

To join the fun, visitors must claim their gaming passports at the event, which will serve as their tickets to all activities. Complete every challenge to win exclusive vivo freebies, and even get a chance to take home a brand-new vivo V60 Lite.

The vivo V60 Lite grand reveal

At 2:00 PM, the main program officially kicks off with the vivo V60 Lite product presentation and price reveal. Learn what makes this smartphone the ultimate combination of power and style, designed for gamers and content creators alike.

Cosplay runway and stage activities

Experience a spectacular HOK cosplay runway featuring creative and colorful costumes inspired by the game’s characters. Expect exciting raffles, performances, and interactive games throughout the program, as there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Watch the livestream and win a vivo V60 Lite

Can’t join the fun in person? No worries! Watch the full event livestream on vivo Philippines’ Facebook page on October 19 at 5:00 PM. Viewers who tune in online will get an exclusive chance to win a brand-new vivo V60 Lite, so make sure to stay glued to the stream.

Built for nonstop fun and endless style, the vivo V60 Lite packs a 6500mAh BlueVolt battery, sleek design, and eye-catching colors: Pop Pink, Titanium Blue, and Elegant Black. It’s a smartphone made for gamers who love to play hard and look good doing it.

Don’t miss the vivo V60 Lite Launch Event on October 18 at SM North EDSA Annex Atrium, where gaming, cosplay, and technology come together for one unforgettable day.

Navotas City Representative Toby Tiangco has again questioned the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on why it is still not cancelling the passport of resigned Ako Bicol Representative Elizaldy Co, even alleging that the agency seems to be defending him and standing as his ‘lawyer.’

Tiangco said this in a press briefing on Friday, after meeting with the Independent Commission for Infrastructure (ICI) amid the investigation on the alleged anomalies in infrastructure projects across the country.

The lawmaker underscored that the DFA has the power to cancel the passport of Co.

‘They have the power to cancel the passport. Now, what I don’t understand is why it seems like DFA or other government officials are still defending Zaldy Co on why the passport can’t be canceled? Cancel it, then let his lawyer question the cancellation in court,’ Tiangco said.

‘Why does it seem like they are lawyering for him? There is a legal process. That’s their function,’ he pointed out.

On October 9, the DFA said that based on the New Philippine Passport Act, it ‘may cancel a Philippine passport only upon the issuance of a court order when the holder is a fugitive from justice or convicted of a criminal offense; or when there is proof that a passport was acquired fraudulently, tampered with, or issued erroneously.’

Meanwhile, Tiangco mentioned that, according to RA 11983 (New Passport Act), Section 4, one of the grounds for the cancellation of a passport is ‘national security.’

‘People are very angry. Maybe we can agree that people are very angry. There are mass movements. These mass movements, bad elements can take advantage of them to destabilize the government,’ Tiangco said.

‘Isn’t that a national security issue? Isn’t that situation fall under it?’ he emphasized.

‘In the DFA, isn’t that a matter of time yet? So, why don’t you cancel it? Then let his lawyer take care of the questions,’ he further said.

When asked if the issue on Co was discussed during his meeting with the ICI, Tiangco said, ‘We didn’t discuss it.’

The lawmaker clarified that no personalities were discussed in the meeting, as he clarified that the ICI only asked him about the overall process of budget insertions in the Congress.

‘To make it very clear, there are no personalities being discussed. What is always being discussed is the process. My impression is that they want to understand the process-the whole process, how it starts, what are the possible-of course they are investigating; they will not disclose to me what evidence they are looking for, right?’ he said.

Meanwhile, following Tiangco’s statement this Friday, the DFA released a statement, maintaining its stance that ‘there is a process for cancellation of passports.’

The agency also reiterated its previous statement that based on the New Philippine Passport Act, it may cancel a Philippine passport ‘only upon the issuance of a court order when the holder is a fugitive from justice or convicted of a criminal offense; or when there is proof that a passport was acquired fraudulently, tampered with, or issued erroneously.’

Co is currently being sought for his alleged involvement in anomalous infrastructure projects across the country, specifically for the supposed irregularities in flood control projects linked to his company, Sunwest Inc.

A magnitude 5.2 earthquake struck off Ilocos Norte on Friday afternoon, said the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

According to Phivolcs, the epicenter of the quake was located 11 kilometers northwest of Pagupdud, Ilocos Norte and was recorded at exactly 4:14 p.m.

The earthquake was tectonic in origin and had a depth of focus of 10 kilometers.

Phivolcs said the following Instrumental intensities were recorded:

Intensity III – Bacarra, Ilocos Norte

Intensity II – Claveria, Cagayan; San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte; Sinait, Ilocos Sur

Intensity I – City of Vigan, Ilocos Sur

No damage is expected to have been caused by the tremor, but aftershocks may still occur.